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I think every computer musician needs 3 apps, (1_ a DAW that also has good MIDI capabilities (2) Band-in-a-Box (3) A music notation app.
These 3 do what they do better than the others and complement each other.
Insights and incites by Notes
I agree.
I would add a basic knowledge of computers. You really have to be a "geek" to use musician's programs like the above three to get the most out of them. YMMV